Constipation is something that is common in cats and while it is normally mild, it's something that we can easily treat with cat constipation remedies and simple home treatments. But sometimes constipation can become very severe and may be indicative of more serious health issues. Let us provide you with some information on how to deal with this.
Symptoms of Cat Constipation
Most cats will have a bowel movement approximately every 24 to 36 hours, but if your cat is passing solids less frequently or having difficulty, they might be constipated. If it is more than 48 to 72 hours between stools, you should get in contact with your vet. The main sign of constipation is a dry hard, stool, either inside or outside the cat tray. It may be very dry and hard, and you may find these outside the cat tray as the discomfort in trying to pass it causes cats to leave the litter box before they have finished. You may also notice they are straining or crying in the litter box, or even avoiding the cat tray altogether. Constipation is usually a sign of underlying issues, so you could see nausea, vomiting, more frequent urination, or weight loss too.
Reasons for Cat Constipation
Constipation can occur if the intestines are not moving everything along as they should. This could be down to stress or anxiety, allergies, or even some types of cancer. But anything that causes dehydration may result in constipation.
Treating Cat Constipation
As it could indicate serious disease, it needs to be discussed with your vet and must be treated as soon as possible to minimise the risk of permanent damage. Vets can prescribe medications or over-the-counter medicines such as a cat laxative and they will also identify the underlying issue which is just as important as managing the symptoms.
How Can I Help My Cat Beat Constipation?
There are many things you can do to relieve your cat’s constipation:
- Increasing their water consumption is a good start. As dehydration is one of the key contributors to constipation, keeping them well hydrated by feeding them wet food will increase their water intake. As cats are not good at drinking standing water, wet food or setting up more water sources can help. It is also a good idea to flavour the cat’s water.
- You can also try them with a new diet. But do this gradually and make it a very long transition.
- You can also increase their exercise regime, reduce stress or anxiety, and also try additional fibre or even probiotics.
- It is also worth checking to see if your cat is obese. Helping your cat to maintain a healthy weight it is essential for so many aspects of their health. If there is too much fat in the belly, this can hinder any movement of stools. But this is worth discussing with your vet so you can create a proper diet plan.
When it comes to cat constipation it is important to say on top of this issue. If you notice signs such as your cat straining, you need to get in contact with your vet straight away.